In a groundbreaking feat of engineering and collaboration, U.S.-based TDI-Brooks has wrapped up a high-stakes geotechnical mission in the Caribbean, marking a pivotal moment in the joint gas project between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela. This ambitious venture, centered around the Dragon Field, is set to unlock vast energy reserves and redefine regional energy partnerships. Here’s how TDI-Brooks made it happen.
The Mission: Mapping the Depths of the Dragon Field
TDI-Brooks, a leader in offshore geotechnical and environmental services, recently completed a third-party geotechnical coring project for Venezuelan firm Geohidra. The operation spanned from the Dragon Field in Venezuelan waters to the Shell-operated Hibiscus platform off Trinidad and Tobago’s North Coast. Conducted aboard the Dona Jose 2 vessel, the project involved cutting-edge technology and meticulous precision.
Using the Neptune 3,000 miniature coiled rod CPT system, the team performed 18 cone penetration tests (CPTs), reaching depths of 3.25 to 6.25 meters in water depths of 130 to 150 meters. But that’s not all—18 box core samples and 18 Cyclic Mini T-Bar tests were also completed, providing critical data for the gas project’s next phases.
A Game-Changer for Caribbean Energy
The Dragon Field, located near the maritime border between Venezuela and Trinidad, is estimated to hold a staggering 4.2 trillion cubic feet of gas. This joint venture, formalized in September 2023, represents a historic collaboration between the two nations. The project’s rapid progress—just ten months after Trinidad and Tobago secured a 30-year license—underscores the urgency and potential of this energy goldmine.
TDI-Brooks’ work is a cornerstone of this effort, providing the geotechnical insights needed to safely and efficiently tap into these reserves. The data collected will inform everything from drilling strategies to environmental impact assessments, ensuring the project moves forward with both precision and responsibility.
The Future of Offshore Exploration
The success of this mission is a testament to the power of innovation and international cooperation. As the Caribbean positions itself as a key player in the global energy market, projects like this one highlight the region’s untapped potential. With TDI-Brooks leading the charge, the Dragon Field could soon become a symbol of sustainable energy development and cross-border collaboration.
